Meaning: This quote by musician Cab Calloway reflects his frustration with the difficulties of capturing the essence of an opera through photography. Calloway expresses his dissatisfaction with the outcome of the opera photography, attributing the failure to accurately represent the performance to the photographers' errors. He also acknowledges the decision of the Gershwins to withdraw the photography, indicating that the quality of the images did not meet their standards. Furthermore, Calloway suggests that had the original company been involved in the photography, the results would have been more satisfactory.

Calloway's statement underscores the challenges inherent in translating the live experience of opera into a static visual medium such as photography. Opera is a multifaceted art form that encompasses music, vocals, acting, set design, and costumes, all of which contribute to a rich and immersive live experience. Capturing the dynamism and emotion of a live opera performance through still images is indeed a daunting task, as it requires a deep understanding of the nuances of the art form and the ability to convey its essence through a single frame.

The technical complexities of photographing opera further compound the challenge. Opera performances often feature intricate lighting designs, rapid changes in stage composition, and a wide range of emotions expressed by the performers. Photographers must navigate these dynamic elements to capture compelling and evocative images that do justice to the opera's visual and emotional impact. Additionally, the constraints of shooting in low light conditions and the need to respect the integrity of the performance further add to the difficulty of opera photography.

In his critique of the opera photography, Calloway emphasizes the importance of expertise and understanding in the visual representation of opera. By suggesting that involving the original company would have led to a better outcome, he highlights the significance of having individuals who are intimately familiar with the nuances of the opera and its production process to undertake the task of photography. This insight underscores the idea that a deep understanding of the subject matter is essential for capturing its essence through visual media.

Calloway's remarks also shed light on the collaborative nature of opera and the significance of preserving its integrity across different artistic expressions. Opera is a collaborative art form that brings together composers, librettists, directors, singers, musicians, and visual artists to create a cohesive and immersive experience for the audience. The synergy between these various elements is vital to the success of an opera production, and any visual representation of the performance should strive to honor and reflect this collaborative spirit.

In conclusion, Cab Calloway's quote encapsulates the challenges of photographing opera and the complexities involved in translating its live experience into still images. His observations underscore the technical and artistic hurdles inherent in opera photography, as well as the importance of expertise, understanding, and collaboration in visually representing the essence of this multifaceted art form. Ultimately, Calloway's remarks prompt us to consider the intricate nature of opera and the need for a nuanced and informed approach to capturing its visual and emotional richness.